The Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) was awarded to naval and marine warrant officers and officers of the rank of Commander or below for the performance of meritorious or distinguished service before the enemy. For additional acts, a silver bar was issued.

For services during the Great War, the London Gazette announced the award of the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) to members of the flying services 305 times:

Airmen who received the DSC: 259
Airmen who received a first Bar to the DSC: 39
Airmen who received a second Bar to the DSC: 7